Mulroney was critical of the “anonymity” of the Internet: “I think that presents both personal and political problems for the participants and the country.”

Whether a 73-year-old is qualified to comment on a technological marvel that flourished after he left office 20 years ago is questionable. But for a member of Generation X, chronologically speaking, Ford also has little interest in social media mechanics.

Rather, throughout his political career, he has encouraged constituents to call his office when they have a problem. He’s built his reputation on personally phoning them back — not emailing, not text messaging, but actually talking — even after he vaulted from city councillor to mayor.

Team Ford has recognized the basic need to disseminate their messages online. The mayor has accounts on the major services, but they’re largely filled with perfunctory messages about city events of press releases from the city website. They lack anything resembling personality.

Nick Kouvalis, the campaign manager for his successful 2010 campaign, has recently tweeted from the sidelines, suggesting that he’s getting ready to spring back into action whenever the Ford family needs him again.

Still, expressing himself on social media continues to be among the lowest priorities for the mayor, even as his new chief of staff, Mark Towhey, is actively engaged in the conversation that swirls around Twitter.

Yet the prosaic updates disseminated to the over 26,000 followers of @TOMayorFord, along with the updates served to 3,000 followers on Facebook, are clearly not pecked out by Ford himself. While some are in the first person, the mayor’s office has never really tried to create the illusion that they were his handiwork.

The contrition that Ford offered to the city on Tuesday in response to his judicial ouster was posted in full on Facebook. But the response wasn’t overwhelming, and even the unfavourable reaction was respectful. Whether this is because harsh criticism is being deleted, or most are tired of trolling the page, is unclear.

Would any potential second wind for Ford’s political career benefit from mixing it up more on social media like his Calgary counterpart, Naheed Nenshi? Would a more personable approach help him get re-elected in 2014?

Just had a great early morning kickboxing session. I am warmed up and ready for budget meetings! #yyccc